Introduction:
Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation and swelling of the conjunctiva, the thin transparent tissue that covers the front surface of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. This eye condition is a widespread and highly contagious ailment that affects people of all ages and demographics. Conjunctivitis can be caused by various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or even environmental irritants. Identifying the causes, understanding the symptoms, and exploring effective treatment and prevention methods play a crucial role in managing and controlling conjunctivitis. Throughout history, conjunctivitis has been an annoying and highly contagious nuisance. Even before the advent of modern medicine, people were well aware of its existence. In fact, ancient Egyptian papyrus documents dating back to 1550 BC describe treatments for conjunctivitis.
Current Situation:
Scientists maintain that conjunctivitis is a prevalent condition in India, primarily observed during the rainy season. The leading cause of conjunctivitis infection in the region is the adenovirus, a group of viruses responsible for common colds and other upper respiratory infections. To prevent infection, it is crucial for individuals to adhere to good hygiene practices. In the event of a conjunctivitis infection, it is recommended that affected individuals isolate themselves at home and prioritize rest.
Symptoms:
To decrease the symptoms of bacterial or viral conjunctivitis, take Ibuprofen or similar over-the-counter painkillers to get some relief.
Types of Conjunctivitis Disease:
Viral Conjunctivitis :
Viral conjunctivitis frequently begins in one eye and then spreads to the other. It causes redness, watery discharge, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. You might also experience cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose or sore throat.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis:
Bacterial conjunctivitis is usually characterized by redness, yellow or green discharge that forms crusts, and a gritty feeling in the eyes. The affected eye may be stuck shut upon waking up, and it can also cause swollen eyelids.
Allergic Conjunctivitis:
Allergic conjunctivitis often affects both eyes and is accompanied by itching, redness, and excessive tearing. You might notice your eyes feeling swollen or puffy, and they may also be sensitive to light.
Causes of Conjunctivitis:
Viral Conjunctivitis:
Viral conjunctivitis is typically caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold. It’s highly contagious and can spread easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
Viral conjunctivitis mostly goes away within one or two weeks without any treatment.
Bacterial Conjunctivitis:
Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pneumoniae causes bacterial conjunctivitis. It can result from poor hand hygiene or through direct contact with an infected person’s eye secretions.
Allergic Conjunctivitis:
Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the eyes react to substances that trigger an allergic response, such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. It’s much like having an allergy attack, but specifically affecting the eyes.
Precautions:
Hands should be washed with soap and water on regular basis.
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, pillows, and anything that comes in contact with eyes.
Avoid close contact with other person (especially handshake)
Avoid the use of same eye products for infected and healthy eye.
When to see a doctor:
Seek immediate medical assistance if you see any of the following severe symptoms :-
Severe eye pain
Intensive eye redness
Sensitivity towards light
Blurry vision
An immune system that is weakened for example from HIV or any cancer treatment
Or any symptoms that get worst
Treatment:
For mild cases:
When it comes to treating conjunctivitis, sometimes less is more.
In mild cases, conservative treatment options can do the trick.
This includes good rest and relaxation for your eyes.
Give them a break from screens and bright lights, and let them recover naturally.
Applying a cool compress to your eyes can also provide some soothing relief.
Other important Treatment:
To provide additional benefits, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) such as ketorolac and diclofenac might be added to the treatment regimen.
Allergen-specific immunotherapy is a treatment that aims to induce tolerance to a specific allergen. It has traditionally been administered through subcutaneous injections, but sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is emerging as an alternative. SLIT has been shown to effectively alleviate symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, especially nasal symptoms.
Home Remedies and Self-Care:
Artificial tears can provide relief from dryness and discomfort in eye.
To wash hands regularly and frequently with soap and water.
Avoid touching and rubbing your eyes.
A good warm nap can also give a good relief to eyes.
If your eyelids are stuck together, a warm towel can help release the dried mucus on your eye and allow you to open your eyes easily.
⁸
Medications and Eye Drops:
For allergic conjunctivitis, If rest and relaxation alone won’t do the trick, you might need a little extra help. Your doctor might prescribe antihistamine eye drops to combat the allergic version of conjunctivitis.
The following are the most common used drugs for allergic conjunctivitis –
Topical antihistamines
Topical mast cell inhibitors
Topical corticosteroids
Oral antihistamines
For bacterial conjunctivitis, antibiotic eye drops can help fight those pesky bacteria. Just be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and finish the full course of treatment.
The most common method of treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis is using ophthalmic antibiotic eye drops or ointment such as –
Reference:
Buck JM, Lexau C, Shapiro M, Glennen A, Boxrud DJ, Koziol B, et al. A community outbreak of conjunctivitis caused by nontypeable Streptococcus pneumoniae in Minnesota.
Shekhawat NS, Shtein RM, Blachley TS, Stein JD. Antibiotic prescription fills for acute conjunctivitis among enrollees in a large United States managed care network. Ophthalmology.
Azari AA, Barney NP. Conjunctivitis: A systematic review of diagnosis and treatment
Narayana S, McGee S. Bedside diagnosis of the ‘Red Eye’: a systematic review.
Comments